Arrival/Check-in: After an early-morning flight and a long day of meetings, we crossed into Miami Beach, heading to Millionaire’s Row. The entrance to the Eden Roc glimmered in the evening light as we pulled into the driveway. Friendly bellmen wearing fedoras quickly escorted us into the hotel lobby, which buzzed with stylish guests surrounding the sunken circular bar. I was still taking in the nostalgic 1950s décor and unique architecture, originally designed by the famed Morris Lapidus, when, before I knew it, I had my key and was being directed to the elevators.

Guest Quarters: Eden Roc recently completed an extensive restoration, which added the new 21-story Ocean Tower. My room featured a large balcony with a stunning ocean view and a rattan double lounge chair. Everything in the room was positioned to take in the view, including the bed with its lush designer linens, a bright orange ’50s-style couch and a large desk. The room was spacious and well appointed for entertainment with a large LCD-screen TV and an iPod docking station. The bathroom featured aqua glass tiles and a large marble trough sink with two contemporary faucets. The open shower and large bathtub, in a separate room, offered ocean views while I relaxed in the bath.

Services/Amenities: During our two-day stay, we came and went multiple times. The valet, reception staff and concierge were always quick and accommodating. We enjoyed breakfast at 1500° Miami Beach, a farm-to-table restaurant where celebrity chef Paula DaSilva, of Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen, creates the menu weekly based on local farm offerings. We also had the pleasure of dining at the Cabana Beach Club, a partially covered outdoor restaurant offering views, cocktails and fantastic food. Unfortunately, we missed the chance to indulge at the ELLE spa, the infinity pools and the lobby bar.

The Experience: Eden Roc’s renovation pays due homage to its glory days hosting the likes of Katharine Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart. We felt an inescapable energy when entering its doors which added spice to our business trip. It was truly a delightful stay, and I look forward to returning.

GT Checklist

• Doorman/valet
• Less than 10 minutes for check-in
• Separate tub/shower
• Large vanity
• High-quality towels
• Large, flat-screen TV
• Large desk with convenient outlets
• Complimentary in-room WiFi
• Ample lighting
• High-quality bed linens
• Choice of pillows
• Powerful, unattached hair dryer
• Iron and ironing board
• Easy-to-set alarm clock
• On-site restaurant and bar
• 24-hour room service
• In-room coffeemaker
• Large, complimentary laptop safe

Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach

4525 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33140
tel 305 531 0000
http://www.marriott.com